Winter smash: flat technique for cold conditions

Smash2:51Oct 31, 2025

Key takeaway from our Guru

How do you hit a flat smash in cold weather?

Shift your grip toward an eastern forehand and lower your contact point to head height. Keep your elbow down during the setup to drive the ball flat and hard toward panel five.

What this lesson covers

The winter smash targets opponents pinned against the back glass when low temperatures prevent a high-rebound smash. Players shift to an eastern forehand grip to flatten the racket face. The contact point sits lower than a standard smash, ideally around head height, to ensure the ball skids rather than bounces high.

Preparation begins with the arm raised to create tension, followed by an elbow-down setup that drives forward into the ball. The legs engage to generate power while maintaining a flat, aggressive trajectory. Aiming toward panel five keeps the ball low and forces it to stick into the glass, making a return difficult for opponents. This shot suits players who need an effective finishing option in cold, slow court conditions.

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Original video

Good for

Skill level

Intermediate, High Intermediate

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